Empowering a New Generation of Storytellers
Building a more accessible, inclusive, and innovative film industry from the ground up.
Empowering Underrepresented Creators in Media
At Second Tier, we're breaking down barriers and building up storytellers. Second Tier exists to transform the film and TV landscape by championing creators from all walks of life. We provide innovative educational programs, mentorship, and critical industry access to empower diverse talent to tell their stories. Our goal is to drive change from the ground up, ensuring that the next generation of media makers has the tools and opportunities to shape a more inclusive, dynamic industry.
Our Purpose
Second Tier is committed to closing the gaps in education, access, and opportunities for emerging creators in film and media. We equip talent with essential skills, resources, and industry connections to decentralize the field, fostering a more balanced and well-prepared workforce.
Our Vision
We envision a film and media industry where the barriers to entry are minimized, and creators across all regions have the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. By prioritizing education, collaboration, and equitable access, we aim to reshape the industry into a more balanced, open, and accessible arena for all creators.
The Story Behind Second Tier
Second Tier was born out of a pivotal moment in the entertainment industry. The Hollywood studio system—once the backbone of global entertainment—is faltering. Widespread strikes by writers, actors, and crew members echo a growing dissatisfaction with outdated business models and unsustainable working conditions. As large corporations continue to prioritize profit over artistic integrity, it’s become clear that many creators are being left behind, and the landscape is shifting faster than ever before.
A staggering number of industry professionals are now leaving major film markets like Los Angeles and New York in search of new opportunities elsewhere. Between 2018 and 2023, employment in traditional entertainment hubs declined by over 20%, while corporate venture capital into streaming and new media has skyrocketed. This influx of corporate cash has further isolated underrepresented creators, with over 75% of key decision-making roles in entertainment still held by a narrow demographic. As a result, audiences are growing dissatisfied and disconnected, craving authentic and diverse storytelling that reflects their own experiences.
These trends underscored a vital need to decentralize the entertainment industry and create pathways for fresh talent from all backgrounds, in all regions. That’s where Second Tier comes in. Established to support creators outside of traditional entertainment hubs, our mission is to provide emerging talent with the resources and education that are often accessible only within elite circles. From rural areas to smaller cities, many talented creators are missing out on career opportunities simply because they aren’t located in major film markets. We believe that geography should never be a barrier to a creative career.
Second Tier is dedicated to leveling the playing field by focusing on creators who have been historically overlooked. Through tailored programs and targeted support, we work to equip a new generation of creators with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. By offering robust training, resources, and a connected community, we aim to shape a more egalitarian entertainment industry—one where talented individuals, regardless of background or location, can access the opportunities they deserve.
We’re not just about empowering individual careers; we’re about reshaping an entire industry.
Our Impact
Second Tier is dedicated to making a real difference in cities like Charlotte and other second-tier cities across the nation. While major film markets dominate the industry, many smaller cities are brimming with untapped talent that faces unique challenges—limited access to resources, fewer networking opportunities, and an absence of robust training programs. By focusing on these areas, we aim to empower creators right in their own communities, allowing them to build long-lasting and meaningful careers without relocating. Through our programs, we’re not only expanding access to industry-standard tools and education, but we’re also fostering creative hubs outside of traditional entertainment capitals. The impact of our work extends beyond individual careers—it’s about cultivating a new wave of authentic, regionally-rooted storytelling that reflects the diversity of the nation and strengthens local economies in the process.
Empowerment Through Education
Research indicates that up to 75% of emerging creators in second-tier cities lack access to formal training programs, underscoring the critical need for initiatives that equip them with essential skills to succeed in the film and television industry.
Job Market Disparity
Our studies reveal that only 20% of job openings in the entertainment industry are available to creators outside of major film markets, highlighting the urgent need for targeted programming that fosters talent development and creates pathways to employment.
Impact of Funding
A survey of potential participants in our programs showed that over 85% expressed a willingness to pursue careers in media if they had access to affordable training and resources, demonstrating a clear demand for support that could dramatically increase the number of engaged creators in underserved communities.
Join Us On Our Journey
Join us in reshaping the future of film and media! Your support helps provide critical resources, training, and opportunities for emerging creators outside of traditional film hubs. Together, we can close the gaps in education and access, empowering the next generation of storytellers to thrive in an evolving industry. Take action today—whether by donating, volunteering, or spreading the word—and be part of a movement that’s transforming the creative landscape for good!
Stay Connected!
Join our mailing list to receive the latest updates on our programs, events, and ways you can help support emerging creators. Be the first to know about new initiatives and opportunities as we work to reshape the future of film and media!
